Kerala’s panoramic beaches, one of the most sought-after destinations of tourists visiting Kerala, are now open after months of closure due to Covid-19 pandemic. The move is part of reviving the tourism sector in the State that was in doldrums due to the pandemic and the global Covid-19 scare.
The unlock process of the tourism sector was handled in two phases. While hill stations, adventure resorts and backwater tourism centres were reopened on October 12 adhering to Covid guidelines, beach tourism destinations were reopened in the second phase on November 1, Kerala Piravi Day.
According to Tourism Minister Kadakampally Surendran, the beaches are being opened considering the tourism season that is set to begin. Parks and museums were also opened to the public on November 1.
As per the SOP issued by the government, tourists and visitors will have to wear masks, use soap and sanitizer and follow physical distancing at destinations. Temperature checks at entrances, use of sanitizers, disinfection of seats, handrails et al will be implemented at all tourism spots. Tourists should register on the Covid-19 Jagratha portal and those visiting for less than seven days are exempted from quarantine.
EM Najeeb, Senior Vice President of Indian Association of Tour Operators, feels opening the tourist spots, especially the beaches, is a good move by the government. “It will encourage a rise in domestic tourism and improve the State’s economy. This move will also bring relief to beach properties as they were affected by the pandemic-related closure. Covid-19 protocol has to be strictly observed by all though,” he says.
